So I finally became brave enough to leave school and come home tonight, and I didn’t exactly get the news that I was hoping for. The vet wanted to do a biopsy of the lump on Toby’s head, but it’s too large. He was afraid that he wouldn’t be able to stop the bleeding. He took some blood tests, but the lump will need to be removed. What concerns the vet — and therefore, concerns me — is that Toby has lost eight pounds in a very short period of time, despite eating and exercising the same amount as usual.
My Two Dogs: Toby And Zoe
Needless to say, I’ve shed a few tears tonight, but I’m still hoping for some good news — at some point, somehow. This personal experience makes me think a lot about my class though. Tomorrow, I’ll be going to school. My student teacher is off sick, and for the first time in over a month, I’ll actually be teaching. I’ll be conferencing with groups of students, leading lessons, and listening to learning. Tomorrow, I can’t be sad.
I can’t help but think of the wonderful FISH Philosophy book that I read many years ago. Tomorrow, I need to “be there” for the students because they deserve my attention and support. I am human. I do have a life outside of the classroom, and I do feel emotions connected with that life. But when I’m at school and in the classroom, I’m a teacher, and even though I have a lump in my throat now, tomorrow I’ll be excited to teach. Sitting with the students, hearing their ideas, and seeing what they do will make me feel that excitement, I’m sure.
How do you ensure that you’re “there” for the students during your own difficult times? I’d love to hear your words of advice!
Aviva
Aw. Sorry to hear about your sad puppy news. Focusing on your students while you are at school – the things that they need, the questions that they ask, and most importantly, the things they say and do that make you smile and laugh – will help you get through the day. That aside, there is nothing wrong with showing your students your human side. Telling them you are sad because of your dog’s situation – if you are comfortable doing that – will give them a chance to show you how empathetic and caring they can be. I know they wouldn’t disappoint you.
Hang in there.
Thanks Kristi! I definitely have a wonderful group of students, and I have no doubt that they’ll be incredibly empathetic and caring. I’ll see how I’m feeling in the morning, and maybe I will share what’s going on with them. I know though that being in the classroom, talking to the students, and enjoying some smiles, laughs, and learning will help a lot.
Aviva
Hang in there – we are all thinking about you. Puppy troubles are never fun. They will continue to smile to you, and enjoy the moment with them. Xx
As for tomorrow, think of the students. The dogs carry on through a lot for us each day despite being under the weather or injured. We need to be just as strong as they are. Let the students know what is up; they will help you get through the day better than any of us.
Keep thinking positive – that is half the battle. All the best – you and the puppies are in our thoughts!
Thanks Emily! I really appreciate the kind words! Dogs are always there for us, and emulating them is a wonderful idea. I know that talking, learning, and laughing with the students will make things much easier tomorrow, and I am looking forward to teaching again!
I’m so lucky to have such a wonderfully supportive PLN!
Aviva
You and your adorable four legged friends are in my prayers. Perhaps you should take a personal day to give yourself time to process the situation. On the other hand children have a gift for helping us forget our worries while living in the moment.
Sending you strength’
Kim
Thanks Kim! Tomorrow is really not the day to be off. I also think that being in the classroom will be a great thing, and I know that I’ll enjoy my time with the students. As you said, “children have a wonderful gift for helping us forget our worries and live in the moment.”
Aviva
Aviva, I agree with the others. The students have a remarkable ability of keeping us focused on them, and maybe even forgetting what else is going on if only for a little while. But don’t be afraid to show emotions — what a valuable lesson in caring, kindness and empathy that could be.
Keeping good thoughts for you.
Thanks Mary! I have no doubt that the students will give me many reasons to smile today, but I also know that they’ll be supportive. Thanks for all of your support too!
Aviva
Awww Aviva,
You will be in my thoughts my friend. It’s going to be a difficult day as your beloved Toby will be in the back of your mind but you will be surrounded by your students who think the world of you!
Keep thinking positive thoughts & send positive vibes all around. Power of positive thinking always surprises us. Miracles do happen. Vets are amazing, they can do so much.
Sending you positive vibes, keeping positive thoughts and sending you (((HUGS)))
Thanks Rebecca! I so appreciate your comment. Yes, Toby will be in the back of my mind today, but I’m excited to see my students, and I know that they’ll make me happy. They always do.
This “positive thinking” goal may have come at the best of times. While it is hard, I’m trying to remain positive and enjoy all of the time I have with Toby (which will hopefully be a long time)!
Aviva